Abstract [en]

Background: Girls with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are at increased risk of not being detected as there is a lack of knowledge how to identifying ADHD symptoms, especially in girls. Consequently, they risk not getting adequate support during their schoolyears. In the health-promoting nursing at school, the nurse shall respond to the needs of the students in the best possible way, based on trust, science and proven experience.

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to describe young women with ADHD and their experiences during the school years.

Method: The study has been conducted with qualitative methodology and the material has been analyzed with a qualitative meaning analysis. The study is based on six interviews conducted via e-mail.

Result: The analysis resulted in six categories describing young women with ADHD and their experiences during their school years; To feel mentally bad and excluded; Experience lack of understanding; Experience in the classroom; Gaining understanding; Experience getting an ADHD diagnosis; Getting an earlier ADHD-diagnosis would have facilitated.

Conclusion: There is a lack of knowledge in school to identify ADHD in girls, and as result they are often diagnosed as late as in their teenage years. Lack of knowledge and inadequately individualized support efforts have a negative impact on school performance and mental health.